Varanasi: SIT Attaches Rs 28.5 Crore Property in Codeine Cough Syrup Smuggling Case
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Sonbhadra district has executed a major property attachment in Varanasi. Movable and immovable assets worth approximately Rs 28.5 crore, allegedly acquired through criminal activities by main accused Bhola Prasad, have been seized. This action was carried out on Friday in compliance with a court order from Sonbhadra, targeting properties linked to the father of kingpin Shubham Jaiswal.
Intensive Investigation Uncovers Organized Syndicate
Sonbhadra Superintendent of Police Abhishek Verma stated that this move is part of a special campaign aimed at effectively curbing crimes and criminals associated with drug trafficking. The case revolves around the illegal smuggling of codeine-laced cough syrup, with an FIR registered at Robertsganj police station under multiple legal provisions, including sections 318(4), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2)(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 27-A and 29 of the NDPS Act.
During an intensive investigation by the SIT, it was revealed that Bhola Prasad, a resident of Kayasth Tola in the Adampur police station area of Varanasi, operated an organized syndicate for the illegal smuggling of codeine cough syrup. Through these illicit activities, he amassed substantial wealth, leading to the identification of properties valued at around Rs 28.50 crore.
Court Order and Execution of Attachment
After identifying these properties, a detailed report was submitted to the court, seeking attachment under Section 107 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The court, upon finding sufficient evidence, issued an order on Thursday for the attachment of all movable and immovable properties earned from crime. Prasad was arrested at Kolkata's Dum Dum Airport in December last year while attempting to flee abroad and has since been remanded to judicial custody in the District Jail of Sonbhadra.
In compliance with the court's directive and under the supervision of the Varanasi district magistrate, the attachment proceedings were meticulously carried out in Varanasi. The operation was conducted by the SIT Sonbhadra and Sonbhadra Police, with the presence of Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Judicial) Pindra and under the leadership of Circle Officer Randhir Kumar Mishra from Sonbhadra.
Broader Implications for Drug Trafficking Crackdown
This action underscores the authorities' commitment to dismantling organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking. By targeting the financial assets of key accused individuals, the SIT aims to disrupt the economic foundations of such syndicates. The attachment of properties worth crores sends a strong message to criminals engaged in similar illegal activities across the region.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts to enforce stringent measures against drug-related offenses, with a focus on both legal prosecution and asset recovery. As investigations continue, further actions may be taken to ensure justice and curb the menace of drug smuggling in the area.
